TEAMS MAKE THE DIFFERENCE

Creating Winning Teams

Todays’ endeavours are won mostly by strong teams instead of super individuals. The work environment is so complex and the speed of execution needed much faster that the knowledge and skill  of a group is superior to individual actors. A lot has been said about the importance of teams but how do you establish good ones?

1.       Promote diversity in team selection

Strong teams are balanced teams. They consist of members of various social, cultural  and academic backgrounds. They are not a club of people with the same mindset and socialization. Diversity brings newness and creativity, the hallmarks of success.

 

2.       Set the right vision for the team

People are motivated to work towards accomplishment of worthwhile goals. People are happier and energised to pursue clear and inspiring visions. The energy level of the team has a direct relation to the inspiration of the vision.

 

3.       Establish acceptable rules

 Strong teams work according to well established and agreed rules. The rules must not be cumbersome or punitive. For example meetings should start and end on time. Every member should be given room to contribute. Members who miss agreed targets or who behave abnormally are sanctioned in love.

4.       Have clear responsibilities

Successful teams have clearly defined roles and responsibilities. Each member knows what is to be done and when. Everyone knows the acceptable quality and what to do if there are challenges. Assignments are allocated according to knowledge, skill and experience. Members not only work well  among themselves but also help each other.

5.       Always raise the performance bar

High performing teams are always looking at ways to exceed the previous milestones and targets . They are never satisfied even after beating records. Continuous improvement of systems, processes, products and people’s conduct is their everyday passion. High performing teams celebrate success but never get satisfied with current achievement. They take time to celebrate but ever hungry for more.

6.       Have Effective communication

Strong teams are well known for good communication, whether verbal or non verbal. Some teams have a reputation of songs and dance. They energize and assure each other through clear and unambiguous communication be it email, face to face communication or even whistling. The team is an orchestra producing good music.  Where there is effective communication, disputes and disagreements are minimized.

7.       Share burdens

High performing terms share burdens. If one member is struggling other members come to the rescue. If there is bereavement for example members support each other. Strong Teams are willing to take pay cuts rather that losing members through retrenchment. High performers to sacrifice  pay for cohesion and high team spirit. Community is more important than pay check. Sustainability better than short term gains.

When you have built and developed a strong team you are assured of winning the game.

Dr Andrew Nyambayo (PhD. MBA, Bsc Eng) is a business leader, strategist, coach and motivational speaker with over 20 years experience in the telecommunications and service industry. He is the author of famous books, "Integral Marketing: Enhancing Livelihoods"  and  "Succeeding in Turbulent Times"